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\f0\b\fs24 \cf0 The Normandy Historic Trail
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\f0 When one reads the word "trail" one of course thinks of hiking.\'a0 The trail was originally designed to run from the American Cemetery to Pointe de Hoc. It was an excellent hike that involved walking up the bluffs overlooking the beach as well as walking on Omaha Beach or the sidewalk along the beach depending on the tide. In 2001, the bluffs were closed to walking due to a severe erosion problem.
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\f0 \cf0 There is a sidewalk from Vierville to St. Laurent (not far) and towards Colleville (US Cemetery), that one can walk. The trail was originally designed when one could walk the cliffs overlooking the beaches. Those have been closed since 2001 due to erosion. The Normandy Historic Trail is completed by visiting Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and Pointe de Hoc. This can be done by foot where possible and by vehicle.
\i\b We do not recommend walking on the road from Vierville to Pointe de Hoc. Two cars can barely pass on the road and it is the scene of several pedestrian and vehicle accidents (buses, and cars driving too fast). The important part is the history and learning about what happened on D-Day, not the hike.
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The person leading the hike should know some of the details about the D-Day landings to make the history come alive or purchase several of the excellent books available in English in the area (or before you go, save yourself some money and visit your local library, if you have an English language library).\
The Normandy Historic Trail patch is available from the Transatlantic Scout Shop for $4.00 per patch.\
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